Methods and apparatus for dynamically configuring search operations in a multi-mode device

ABSTRACT

Methods and apparatus for dynamic search management in a multi-mode device. In one embodiment, a mobile device performs network search and acquisition by dynamically changing search delays and/or search frequencies. In one implementation, the mobile device adjusts the amount of time allocated for each network search based on e.g., previous network connection history (e.g., previously connected to a home network, previously connected to a roaming network), device conditions, user preferences, geographical information, etc. By focusing search effort on cellular technologies which have a high likelihood of success, the mobile device can greatly improve search time and reduce unnecessary power consumption.

COPYRIGHT

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialthat is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and TrademarkOffice patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrightrights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND

1. Technological Field

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of wirelesscommunication. More particularly, in one exemplary aspect, thedisclosure is directed to methods and apparatus for dynamicallyconfiguring search operations in a multi-mode device.

2. Description of Related Technology

Mobile wireless devices are becoming increasingly full-featured andcomplex, and accordingly must support multiple aspects of operation,including for example voice calls, data streaming, and variousmultimedia applications. Multi-network (also referred to as themulti-mode) wireless devices are often used to provide connectivity inmobile applications where uses may change their location (e.g., whiletraveling).

During so-called “roaming” access, a multi-mode device may attempt toswitch between each of its available modes (networks), so as to identifya suitable cellular network for operation. For example, consider amulti-mode device having three modes: (i) CDMA2000 which is associatedwith the multi-mode device's home network, (ii) GSM, and (iii) WCDMA.During operation, the device will power up and attempts to scan for aCDMA2000 network (such as based on a Preferred Roaming List or PRL).CDMA2000 searches are based on detection of a so-called “pilot” signal.If the mobile device can identify the presence of the pilot signal, themobile will proceed to acquire timing and phase alignment. Once themobile device has aligned to the base station, it can synchronize finetiming, receive control information, and register to the network.

If no CDMA2000 networks are located, the device attempts to scan for anyGSM networks, such as based on a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM)preference. During the GSM search, the mobile device searches for abeacon signal within the standard GSM frequency bands. If the beaconsignal is found, then the device determines the timing by searching fora synchronization channel, which is transmitted according to a fixedschedule. If no GSM network is located, the device attempts to scan forany WCDMA networks based on a SIM preference. Once the mobile device hascompleted Primary Synchronization Sequence (PSS) and SecondarySynchronization Sequence (SSS) searches, the mobile device can decodethe BCCH, and decode control information necessary to initiate networkregistration.

If no WCDMA network has been found, then the device repeats theforegoing process. This repeating or looping process is “fixed”, anddoes not change regardless of the mobile device's previous connectionhistory. Furthermore, this process can waste a significant amount ofpower on modes which have less likelihood of success.

Accordingly, improved schemes for multi-mode device network searchingare needed. Ideally, such schemes should reduce overall powerconsumption by intelligently allocating search time for each networktechnology, rather than looping through each available option until awireless network is found.

SUMMARY

The aforementioned needs are satisfied by the present disclosure whichprovides, inter alia, apparatus and methods for dynamically configuringsearch operations in a multi-mode device.

Firstly, a method for dynamically configuring search operations in amulti-mode device is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includesidentifying information relating to a previous network connectionhistory; determining a search behavior based on the previous networkconnection history; and executing the search behavior. In one variant,the search behavior comprises a single-mode network search for a timeinterval.

An apparatus adapted to dynamically configure search operations in amulti-mode device is also disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatusincludes one or more modems; a processor; and a non-transitory computerreadable apparatus having a storage medium with a computer programstored thereon. In one variant, the computer program is configured to,when executed on the processor, identify information relating to aprevious network connection history; determine a search behavior basedon the previous network connection history, and execute the searchbehavior. The search behavior may include for example a single-modenetwork search for a time interval.

A system for capabilities management within heterogeneous networks isfurther disclosed.

A network entity configured for use with a client-based capabilitiesmanagement scheme within heterogeneous networks is also disclosed.

A non-transitory computer readable apparatus is further disclosed. Inone embodiment, the apparatus includes at least one computer programstored on a medium, the at least one program configured to, whenexecuted, implement a capabilities management process within one or morewireless networks.

Other features and advantages will immediately be recognized by personsof ordinary skill in the art with reference to the attached drawings anddetailed description of exemplary embodiments as given below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a graphical representation of one exemplary cellular networkuseful in illustrating various aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a logical flow diagram representing one typical prior artsearch scheme for use with a multi-mode roaming device.

FIG. 3 is a logical flow diagram representing a generalized method fordynamically configuring search operations in a multi-mode device, inaccordance with one feature of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a logical flow diagram representing one exemplary method forpower optimization of a mobile device by delaying multi-mode scanning,in accordance with various features of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a graphical representation of one exemplary client device,useful in conjunction with various features of the present disclosure.

All Figures© Copyright 2013 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference is now made to the drawings, wherein like numerals refer tolike parts throughout.

Overview—

Multi-mode cellular devices may be used with different cellulartechnologies. During so-called “roaming” access, a multi-mode devicewill switch between each of its available modes, so as to identify asuitable cellular network for operation. Various cellular technologiestend to have different deployment densities in different geographiclocations. For example, within the United States, CDMA-basedtechnologies such as e.g., CDMA2000 1X, CDMA2000 EV-DO Rev. 0, andCDMA2000 EV-DO Rev. A are very popular, whereas within Europe and Asia,GSM, GPRS, EDGE, and UMTS are common.

Existing multi-mode cellular devices loop through each of the modesduring network searches, which consume a significant amount of power.However, existing approaches do not account for the geographiclikelihood of finding and registering to a cellular technology that maybe similar to one or more previously active cellular technologies. Moresuccinctly, where a user has powered off or lost reception in an areaserviced by a Mobile Network Operator (MNO) offering a first cellulartechnology, the user may be much more likely to locate and register to anetwork in the area with the same cellular technology (where the MNO canbe either the same or, in some cases different) as opposed to a networkwith a dissimilar cellular technology.

Consequently, improved methods and apparatus for network search andacquisition are disclosed herein. The performance of the search andacquisition process is greatly improved in one exemplary embodiment ofthe disclosure by dynamically changing search delays and/or searchfrequencies. Specifically, in one variant, a device will adjust theamount of time allocated for each network search based on e.g., previousnetwork connection history (e.g., previously connected to a homenetwork, previously connected to a roaming network), device conditions,user preferences, and/or geographical information. By focusing on thehighest probability modes, the multi-mode device can both greatlyimprove search time and reduce unnecessary power consumption.

Various implementations are disclosed hereinafter. In one suchimplementation, a configurable timer is used to control the amount oftime spent on each mode. In other variants, an incrementing (ordecrementing) counter is used to control the number of scans performedby each mode. Moreover, by adjusting the amount of time or scans spentwithin each mode, a looping procedure can further adjust the relativesearch frequency. For example, in one implementation, the loop includesa first interval spent on a first cellular mode, a second interval spenton a second cellular mode, etc. By repeating this cycle, the amount oftime spent in searching in each mode can be divided according tolikelihood of success.

Various implementations may further configure timers and/or countersbased at least in part on use scenario. For example, certainconfigurable timers and/or timers may be adjusted to improve e.g.,initial search, device power up, or subsequent searches after systemloss, etc.

A multi-mode device is also disclosed that is capable of (i) CDMA2000,(ii) GSM, and (iii) WCDMA operation. As described in greater detailherein, the multi-mode device is configured to scan for networks insingle-mode search (i.e., searching for a single technology) for a setamount of time. If the device fails to locate a network in single-modesearch within the allotted time, then the device transitions to amulti-mode search.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are now described indetail. While these embodiments are primarily discussed in the contextof cellular networks including without limitation, third generation (3G)CDMA2000, Global System for Mobile communications (GSM), and UniversalMobile Telecommunications Systems (UMTS) cellular networks, it will berecognized by those of ordinary skill that the present disclosure is notso limited. In fact, the various features of the disclosure are usefulin and readily adapted to other cellular technologies including forexample: General Radio Packet Service (GPRS), Enhanced Data Rates forGSM Evolution (EDGE), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A),Interim Standard 95 (IS-95), Interim Standard 2000 (IS-2000, alsoreferred to as CDMA2000), CDMA 1XEV-DO, Time Division Single CarrierCDMA (TD-SCDMA), Time Division LTE (TD LTE), etc.

Moreover various aspects of the present disclosure are not limited tocellular technologies. It will be recognized by artisans of ordinaryskill that the present disclosure is applicable to multiple areas ofwireless technologies including for example, Wireless Local AreaNetworks (WLAN), Personal Area Networks (PAN), and Metropolitan AreaNetworks (MAN). Common commercial examples of the foregoing include,without limitation, Wi-Fi, WiMAX, Bluetooth, etc.

It will be appreciated that a “cross-category” search or scan can beimplemented consistent with the disclosure, such as where for example adata “call” must be made, the device can scan first for a cellulartechnology capable of handling the call (such as e.g., LTE), and where asuitable cellular solution is not found, scanning other solutions suchas WLAN and/or WMAN.

Cellular Networks—

In the following discussion, an exemplary cellular radio system isdescribed that includes a network of radio cells each served by atransmitting station, known as a cell site or base station (BS). Theradio network provides wireless communications service for a pluralityof mobile station (MS) devices. The network of BSs working incollaboration allows for wireless service which is greater than theradio coverage provided by a single serving BS. The individual BSs areconnected to a Core Network, which includes additional controllers forresource management and is in some cases capable of accessing othernetwork systems (such as the Internet, other cellular networks, etc.).

FIG. 1 illustrates one exemplary cellular network 100, with clientdevices 102, operating within the coverage of the Radio Access Network(RAN) provided by a number of base stations (BSs) 104. The Radio AccessNetwork (RAN) is the collective body of base stations and associatednetwork entities that are controlled by a Mobile Network Operator (MNO).The user interfaces to the RAN via the client devices, which in manytypical usage cases is a cellular phone or smartphone. However, as usedherein, the terms “mobile station”, “mobile device”, “client device”,“user equipment”, and “user device” may include, but are not limited to,cellular telephones, smart phones (such as for example an iPhone™manufactured by the Assignee hereof), personal computers (PCs) andminicomputers, whether desktop, laptop, or otherwise, as well as mobiledevices such as handheld computers, PDAs, personal media devices (PMDs),tablet computers such as the exemplary iPad™ device manufactured by theAssignee hereof, or any combinations of the foregoing.

As shown in FIG. 1, the RAN is coupled to the Core Network 106 of theMNO e.g., via broadband access. The Core Network provides both routingand service capabilities. For example, a first client device connectedto a first base station can communicate with a second client deviceconnected to a second base station, via routing through the CoreNetwork. Similarly, a client device can access other types of servicese.g., the Internet, via the Core Network. The Core Network performs awide variety of functions, including without limitation, authenticationof client devices, authorization of client devices for various services,billing client devices for provisioned services, call routing, etc.

As a brief aside, cellular networks are owned and operated by a MobileNetwork Operator (MNO). Typically, a client device is used in aso-called “home network”; the client's home network is operated by theMNO and has the information necessary to authenticate and provisionservice to the client device (e.g., cryptographic keys used forauthentication, service agreements, billing information, etc.). However,the client device may “roam” outside of the home network; accordingly,so-called “roaming” access refers to the set of services that areprovided by a “visited network” with which the client device is notassociated. Visited networks are typically operated by a different MNOthan the MNO that a mobile device is associated with, however this isnot always true (i.e., due to business arrangements, legal regulation,etc.). Roaming services are negotiated between MNOs to providereciprocal service agreements to improve service coverage for theirsubscriber populations, respectively. For example, MNOs typicallynegotiate roaming relationships with other MNOs in different countriesto enable accessibility of voice, data and other supplementary servicesfor their subscribers when they travel internationally.

Existing networks (and client devices) have a wide range in bothtechnological capabilities and business models. For example, a 3GPP2operator (3GPP2 technologies include e.g., CDMA2000 1X, CDMA2000 EV-DORev. 0, CDMA2000 EV-DO Rev. A, and CDMA2000 EV-DO Rev. B, etc.) can haveroaming relationships with other 3GPP2 operators and/or 3GPP operators(3GPP technologies include e.g., GSM, GPRS, EDGE, UMTS, LTE etc.). Theseso-called “cross technology agreements” can be useful with devices thatsupport multiple technologies (also referred to as “multi-mode”devices). However, it should be noted that a client device havingmulti-mode capability doesn't automatically warrant service (a roamingagreement between the operators is required).

As used hereinafter, the term “heterogeneous networks” and/or “hybridnetworks” may refer generally and without limitation to networks whichhave substantially different capabilities and/or ownership. While thedescribed the population of cellular networks (e.g., which havedifferent technologies, and are operated by different Mobile NetworkOperators (MNOs)) is an illustrative heterogeneous network, it isfurther appreciated that heterogeneous networks are widely used in otherwireless technologies including for example, wireless local areanetworking (WLAN), personal area networking (PAN), etc. For example,commercially successful examples of heterogeneous networks includewithout limitation Wi-Fi, Wireless Microwave Access (WiMAX), etc.

Moreover, as used herein, the term “home network” refers generally andwithout limitation to a cellular network which a mobile device isassociated with (e.g., according to various business arrangementsbetween the mobile device subscriber and the Mobile Network Operator ofthe home network). In contrast, the terms “visited network”, or “roamingnetwork” refer to a cellular network which a mobile device is notassociated with. During roaming access, the mobile device must identifythe visited network, and the visited network provisions service to themobile device based on terms agreed between the MNO of the visitednetwork and the MNO of the home network.

Roaming Procedures—

Referring now to FIG. 2, one prior art roaming scheme is illustrated fora multi-mode device having three modes: (i) CDMA2000 which is associatedwith the multi-mode device's home network, (ii) GSM, and (iii) WCDMA.

As previously discussed, the mobile device first powers up and attemptsto scan for a CDMA2000 network based on a Preferred Roaming List (PRL)(step 202 of the method 200 of FIG. 2). CDMA2000 searches are based ondetection of a so-called “pilot” signal. The pilot signal is a repeatingsequence which is broadcast by each CDMA2000 base station. If the mobiledevice can identify the presence of the pilot signal, the mobile willproceed to acquire timing and phase alignment. Once the mobile devicehas aligned to the base station, it can synchronize fine timing, receivecontrol information, and register to the network.

If no CDMA2000 networks are located then at step 204, the deviceattempts to scan for any GSM networks based on a Subscriber IdentityModule (SIM) preference. During the GSM search, the mobile devicesearches for a beacon signal within the standard GSM frequency bands. Ifthe beacon signal is found, then the device determines the timing bysearching for a synchronization channel, which is transmitted accordingto a fixed schedule. Once the device has synchronized to the GSMnetwork, the device can decode a Broadcast Control Channel (BCCH), whichprovides control information necessary to initiate network registration.

If no GSM network is located, then at step 206, the device attempts toscan for any WCDMA networks based on a SIM preference. During WCDMAsearches, the mobile device performs searches for a PrimarySynchronization Sequence (PSS). Once the mobile device has located thePSS, the mobile device can identify the frame timing and limited basestation information from a Secondary Synchronization Sequence (SSS).Once the mobile device has completed the PSS and SSS searches, themobile device can decode the BCCH, and decode control informationnecessary to initiate network registration.

If no WCDMA network has been found, then the device returns to step 202,and repeats the process 200.

As illustrated in the search scheme of FIG. 2, existing mobile devicesloop through network searches until a network is found. This process isdisadvantageously “fixed”, and does not change regardless of the mobiledevice's previous connection history. Also, as previously noted, thisprocess can waste a significant amount of power on modes which have alow likelihood of success.

Methods—

Improved schemes for multi-mode device network searching are nowdescribed in greater detail. Such schemes can, inter alia, reduceoverall power consumption by intelligently allocating search time foreach network technology, rather than looping through each availableoption until a wireless network is found.

As previously stated, network technologies are not uniformlydistributed. For example, within the United States, CDMA2000 and GSMtechnologies are very popular, whereas within Europe and Asia, GSM,GPRS, EDGE, UMTS are common. However, a multimode device that has aCDMA2000 home network should prefer CDMA2000 networks (even whereGSM/UMTS systems are available). For instance, if roaming agreements arenot in place between the home network and the visited network, themultimode device cannot camp or use any service (except emergency calls)while on the GSM/UMTS system. Thus, the multimode device should ideallyallocate search time based on the likelihood of success for registrationand access to services provided by a network.

In view of the relative difference in technology deployment densities,schemes for network search and acquisition can be greatly improved bydynamically changing one or more variables such as search delays and/orsearch periodicity. Specifically, in one exemplary embodiment of thepresent disclosure, a device will adjust the amount of time allocatedfor each network search based on e.g., previous network connectionhistory (e.g., previously connected to a home network, previouslyconnected to a roaming network), device conditions, user preferences,geographical information, etc. By intelligently managing networksearches, the mobile device can reduce the amount of time spentsearching for networks which are unlikely to yield a positive result.

The following discussion provides generalized methods for dynamicallyconfiguring search operations in a multi-mode device. In oneimplementation, the method optimizes power consumption (e.g., batteryusage) by operating the multi-mode device as a single-mode device for atime period based on a configurable timer. In one such variant, theconfigurable timer is based on identification of the network (e.g. homenetwork or roaming network). Moreover, while the foregoing discussion isbased on a timer and/or counter, it is appreciated that similar resultsmay be achieved by e.g., changing the relative search frequency. Forexample, a mobile device can perform a single-mode search according to afirst interval, and then switch over to multi-mode search for a secondinterval. By looping between single-mode and multi-mode searches, themobile device has fine control over the frequency of single-mode versusmulti-mode search.

Additionally, while various schemes are described hereinafter withrespect to a multi-mode device having (i) CDMA2000, (ii) GSM, and (iii)WCDMA, the foregoing combination is merely illustrative. Multi-modedevices are highly diverse; dual-mode, tri-mode, and quad-mode devicesof various configurations are widely available with multiple differentcellular technologies.

Referring now to FIG. 3, one logical flow diagram of a generalizedmethod for dynamically configuring search operations in a multi-modedevice in accordance with the present disclosure is illustrated.

At step 302 of the method 300, the mobile device identifies geographicinformation. In one embodiment, the geographic information includesinformation relating to previously established network connections. Forexample, the mobile device may determine if its previous networkconnection was its home network or a visited network; i.e., the devicedetermines if was previously roaming. If the previous network was itshome network, then the device assumes that it is still in its homenetwork. In contrast, if the mobile device was previously roaming, thenthe client device will assume that it remains in a roaming area.

In other embodiments, the geographic information may include forexample, information received in out-of-band communication. Commonexamples of such information include, without limitation: (i) geographicinformation provided from other interfaces (e.g., Wi-Fi beacons, GlobalPositioning System (GPS) coordinates, via a WLAN or other air interfaceon the device, etc.), (ii) user input, (iii) historical informationbased on previous usage, etc.

It will also be appreciated that the terms “previous” and “previousnetwork connection” may encompass any number of different schemes,including without limitation: (i) the last connection established by thedevice; (ii) the last connection established that lasted for aprescribed period of time, which transferred a prescribed amount ofdata, or which meets some other metric such as signal strength, “numberof bars”, etc.; (iii) a statistical or other sampling of a number ofprior connections (e.g., the most frequently used connection out of theprior m connections) for that device and/or other devices within thesame or other networks; etc.

At step 304 of the method 300, the mobile device determines a searchbehavior based on the identified geographic information. For example, inone exemplary embodiment, if the mobile device has determined that thedevice was previously operating in the home network, then the mobiledevice may set a first search behavior, whereas if the mobile device waspreviously roaming, then the mobile device may set a second searchbehavior.

In one such variant, if the mobile device was previously connected toits home network, then the device will assume that it is still in itshome network. The mobile device will set a timer, to favor searching thehome network technology. For example, the mobile device will operate asa single-mode device until a home_timer expires. During single-modeoperation, the mobile device will use its default home technology modeto perform a search for a network. Consider an exemplary multi-modedevice with interfaces configured for: (i) CDMA2000 which is associatedwith its home network, (ii) GSM, and (iii) WCDMA. If the mobile devicewas previously used within its home network, than the mobile device willdefault to CDMA2000 scans.

Once the home_timer expires, the mobile device will transition tomulti-mode operation to perform a search for other networks. In oneembodiment, the home_timer is a pre-defined timer. Alternately, thehome_timer may be a dynamically configurable timer. In one such variant,the configuration of the timer may be based on one or more deviceconsiderations including for example: power consumption and/or remainingpower (e.g., remaining battery charge, such as where the single modeoperation persists longer at lower remaining battery levels, so as toconserve power), performance requirements, user-configured settings,historical data (e.g., an average or highest value of the connectiontime for the last n connection events), etc.

Referring back to the exemplary multi-mode device, once the home_timerhas expired, the device switches to multi-mode scanning (e.g., scanningGSM and then WCDMA networks).

In still other variants, the home_counter may be an incrementing (ordecrementing count) of a pre-defined or configurable number ofsingle-mode scans to locate a network before switching over tomulti-mode scanning operation.

Similarly, in one such variant, if the mobile device was previouslyconnected to a roaming network, then the device will assume that it isstill in the roaming network. The mobile device will set a timer, tofavor searching the previously used roaming network technology. Thus,during roaming operation, the mobile device operates as a single-modedevice until the roam_timer expires using the selected roamingtechnology. The roaming technology may be the last technology used bythe mobile device, or alternately, the roaming technology may beselected on the basis of deployment density. In other words, rather thanusing the last used technology (which may be advanced or esoteric), theroaming technology may be selected on the basis of its worldwidedeployment density. In still other embodiments, a roam_counter may bebased on an incrementing (or decrementing) count of a pre-defined orconfigurable number of scans to locate a network before switching overto multi-mode scanning operation.

In some implementations, the roam_timer or roam_counter is configured tothe trivial value of zero (0). Trivial-valued embodiments will operateimmediately as a multi-mode device.

For example, consider a subscriber that travels to a single destinationserviced by a visited network (such as a long vacation). If themulti-mode device is configured for single-mode operation with thepreviously used roaming technology, then each time the subscriber powerson their device in the visited network, the device can quickly searchfor and acquire the visited network. In contrast, consider a subscriberthat travels to multiple destinations serviced by different visitednetworks. In this scenario, remaining in single-mode operation is notnecessarily beneficial; thus, the multi-mode device is configured with atrivial value of zero for the roam_timer (i.e., immediately change tomulti-mode searching). Alternately, the multi-mode device may set itselffor single-mode operation with a very widely used cellular technology(e.g., GSM).

In still other embodiments, the roam_timer or roam_counter can be set toa single scan in single-mode before switching to multi-mode use.

In alternate embodiments, where the mobile device is definitively“known” (e.g., based on user input, GPS coordinates, etc.) to be in ahome network or roaming network, the mobile device may change itsbehavior according to the determined information.

At step 306 of the method 300, the mobile device searches for a networkbased on the determined search behavior. In one embodiment, if thesearch is unsuccessful, the device repeats the same searching procedure,such as for a finite or specified number of repeat “tries”, after whicha different strategy is employed. In alternate embodiments, if thesearch strategy is unsuccessful, the device adjusts the strategy. Forexample, in one exemplary embodiment, if the device cannot find anetwork, the device may adjust a timer length (or counter) forsingle-mode searching and/or multi-mode searching.

In still other implementations, if the search strategy is unsuccessful,the device may reassess or request more information. For example, themobile device may query the user or another network entity foradditional information.

It will also be appreciated that the search may be unsuccessful due tophysical factors (such as: the device being located in a signal fadearea, the antenna being somehow obstructed, the device havinginsufficient remaining power to establish the connection, etc.). Theexemplary mobile device may be programmed for such cases, e.g., toprompt the user to take an action to alleviate the disability (e.g., anon-screen or audible message such as “move to a higher signal strengthlocation before attempting this call”, or “recharge the battery”), andthe foregoing search/scan logic suspended temporarily if desired untilthe appropriate action is taken.

Where a search is successful, the device attempts to register to thefound network and resets its associated timers and/or counters. Thus,even where the device is unable to register to the found network, thedevice can search again in accordance with the present disclosure.Alternately, the timers and/or counters may be “paused”, or in somecases, kept “running”.

Example Operation—

Referring now to FIG. 4, one exemplary method 400 for power optimizationof a mobile device by delaying multi-mode scanning is shown. In thisexample, the mobile device is a multi-mode device having three modes:(i) CDMA2000, (ii) GSM, and (iii) WCDMA. The multi-mode device bases itssearch strategy on its previous connection history. For example, if themobile device loses network reception of a CDMA2000 system, the deviceperforms single-mode scans for CDMA2000 systems based on the completePreferred Roaming List (PRL). If no CDMA2000 systems are found, then thedevice switches to multi-mode operation and executes GSM and WCDMA scansas defined by the subscriber identification module (SIM) profile.

By limiting the mobile device's initial searches to single-modeoperation based on its previous search history, the device can greatlyimprove its overall power consumption. Specifically, the mobile devicefocusing its search resources on cellular technologies which have a muchhigher likelihood of success (e.g., if the device was previouslyconnected to a CDMA2000 network, it is much more likely to find andregister to another (or the same) CDMA2000 network). Since a device hasa very high likelihood of reconnecting to the lost network technology,the overall probability of success for the search is very high comparedto existing schemes. For example, the mobile device which was previouslyconnected to CDMA2000 networks will only scan for CDMA2000 networks fora brief period of time; once the timer has expired, the device willfallback to multi-mode operation and check for nearby GSM/WCDMAnetworks.

At step 402 of method 400, the mobile device determines if it waspreviously operating in a home access state or a roaming access state.The distinction between home access and roaming access is anoptimization to improve selection between distinct timers or counters.For example, a CDMA2000 device that has a home network which is based inthe United States (US) and which was last connected to its home networkis much more likely to find and register to a CDMA2000 network. Moreimportantly, the device should prefer its home MNO (as it is more costeffective) thus the device's home_timer is set to a relatively long scaninterval (e.g., 10 minutes). Similarly, a GSM device that has a homenetwork in the US and was most recently connected to its home network,should also preferentially select a GSM network. In contrast, if thatsame device was previously operating in Asia, the device should continueto assume that it is still in Asia; consequently, the device can remainin a single-mode scan for roam_timer for GSM/WCDMA installations.

In simplified embodiments where there is no distinction between home androaming timers, the device can skip the step of determining the previousoperational state of the mobile device. In other words, the device mayhave a simple timer for single-mode operation; in one such variant, thetechnology used during single-mode searching is the previously usedtechnology (for example, if the device was previously connected to aCDMA2000 network, the single-mode search is set to CDMA2000).

Referring back to FIG. 4, if the device was previously operating withina home network, then the logic flows to step 404. For the duration of ahome_timer (or home_counter), a mobile device will only perform scans ofthe home technology; i.e., act as a single-mode device, until thehome_timer expires. The exemplary logic will then flow to step 408.

If the device was previously operating within a visited network(roaming), then the logic of FIG. 4 flows to step 406. For the durationof a roam_timer (or roam_counter), a mobile device will only performscans of the last used roaming technology; i.e., act as a single-modedevice, until the roam_timer expires. The roam_timer can be set for ashorter duration than the home_timer of step 404, and even in certaincircumstances be set to zero (0) to have the device immediately, withoutdelay, enter multi-mode operation. This can be useful to, inter alia,find whatever technologies are available during travel (presumablyroaming access is typically encountered during travel).

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the home_timer androam_timer can be flexibly configured based on various conditions.Common examples of considered conditions include without limitationpower consumption, remaining battery life, previous states of thedevice, previous results of prior scans, geographic location, userinput, out-of-band information (e.g., discovery information), etc.

Finally, the device determines whether the timer has expired withoutfinding a suitable network when operating in single-mode (steps 408A,408B). If the mobile device has found a suitable network, the method 400completes, and the mobile device associates with the found network. Ifthe mobile device did not find a suitable network, logic flows to step410.

At step 410, the mobile device operates as a multi-mode device. Scanningin multi-mode may be weighted or otherwise disproportionatelydistributed across technologies, or be equal across technologies. Forexample, the mobile device, after scanning for CDMA2000 networks insingle mode, may scan for GSM or WCDMA networks in multi-mode. Themobile device may scan for GSM technologies and WCDMA technologiesequally, or scan for WCDMA technologies a greater number of times thanit may scan for GSM technologies, or vice versa.

This weighting logic, and in fact other logic described herein, may alsobe dynamically controlled by the mobile device (or alternatively anexternal entity, such as a wireless network management entity). Forexample, data relating to historical statistics on successfulconnections for the same and/or similar phones may be used as a basisfor adjusting the weighting, such as were a moving average is employed.The logic may also adjust the weighting based on device capabilities;e.g., where one air interface is disabled or otherwise identified ashaving a low likelihood of success connecting (e.g., due to poorcoverage of that technology within the geographic area where the user islocated, such location being determined by the GPS receiver on thedevice, association with a given base station or wireless access point,etc.), that particular interface or technology can be de-emphasized oreven eliminated from the scan/search routine.

In another variant of the disclosure, the mobile device is configured toconnect (using whatever air interface that is then available to it, suchas WLAN) to a network entity which feeds the current prevailingoptimized search logic to the device so as to increase its chances ofsuccessful connection with minimal power expenditure.

Once an operable network has been found, the mobile device associateswith the discovered network.

Apparatus—

Referring now to FIG. 5, one exemplary client device 500 adapted todynamically configure search operations in a multi-mode device isillustrated. As used herein, the term “client device” includes, but isnot limited to cellular telephones, smart phones (such as for example aniPhone™), wireless-enabled tablet devices (such as for example aniPad™), or any combinations of the foregoing. While one specific deviceconfiguration and layout is shown and discussed herein, it is recognizedthat many other configurations may be readily implemented by one ofordinary skill given the present disclosure, the apparatus 500 of FIG. 5being merely illustrative of the broader principles of the disclosure.

The apparatus 500 of FIG. 5 includes one or more modems 502, a basebandprocessor 504, an applications processor 506 and a computer readablememory subsystem 508.

The baseband processing subsystem 504 includes one or more of centralprocessing units (CPU) or digital processors, such as a microprocessor,digital signal processor, field-programmable gate array, RISC core, orplurality of processing components mounted on one or more substrates.The baseband processing subsystem is coupled to computer readable memory508, which may include for example SRAM, FLASH, SDRAM, and/or HDD (HardDisk Drive) components. As used herein, the term “memory” includes anytype of integrated circuit or other storage device adapted for storingdigital data including, without limitation, ROM. PROM, EEPROM, DRAM,SDRAM, DDR/2 SDRAM, EDO/FPMS, RLDRAM, SRAM, “flash” memory (e.g.,NAND/NOR), and PSRAM.

The baseband processing subsystem 504 is adapted to receive one or moredata streams from the one or more modems 502. As shown, the apparatus500 includes (3) three modems: (i) a CDMA2000 modem 502A, (ii) a GSMmodem 502B, and (iii) WCDMA modem 502C. Alternate embodiments may havedistinct baseband processing systems corresponding to each modem (e.g.,a CDMA2000 baseband, a GSM baseband, and a WCDMA baseband). Moreover, itis further appreciated that multi-mode devices are highly diverse;dual-mode, tri-mode, and quad-mode devices of various configurations arewidely available. In fact, the various aspects of the disclosure areuseful in and readily adapted to any multi-mode combination of one ormore of the following: General Radio Packet Service (GPRS), EnhancedData Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE), Long Term Evolution (LTE),LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), Interim Standard 95 (IS-95), Interim Standard 2000(IS-2000, also referred to as CDMA2000), CDMA 1XEV-DO, Time DivisionSingle Carrier CDMA (TD-SCDMA), Time Division LTE (TD LTE), etc.

The application processing subsystem 506 includes one or more of centralprocessing units (CPU) or digital processors, such as a microprocessor,digital signal processor, field-programmable gate array, RISC core, orplurality of processing components mounted on one or more substrates.The application processing subsystem is coupled to computer readablememory 508.

The application processing subsystem 506 is adapted to control overalloperation of the device including, for example: multimedia processing,operating system controls, program management, baseband processorconfiguration and control, etc.

In one exemplary embodiment, the memory subsystem additionally comprisesinstructions which when executed by the application processor,dynamically adjusts the search delay and/or search frequency for each ofthe various modems. In alternate embodiments, the search delay and/orsearch frequency for each of the various modems is handled within thebaseband processor. Other logical functions (such as e.g.,implementation of the aforementioned dynamic weighting scheme) are alsoperformed by logic within the memory subsystem in the exemplaryembodiment.

Myriad other schemes for client-based capabilities management fordynamically configuring search operations in a multi-mode device will berecognized by those of ordinary skill given the present disclosure.

It will be recognized that while certain aspects of the disclosure aredescribed in terms of a specific sequence of steps of a method, thesedescriptions are only illustrative of the broader methods of thedisclosure, and may be modified as required by the particularapplication. Certain steps may be rendered unnecessary or optional undercertain circumstances. Additionally, certain steps or functionality maybe added to the disclosed embodiments, or the order of performance oftwo or more steps permuted. All such variations are considered to beencompassed within the disclosure and claims herein.

While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointedout novel features of the disclosure as applied to various embodiments,it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changesin the form and details of the device or process illustrated may be madeby those skilled in the art. The foregoing description is of the bestmode presently contemplated. This description is in no way meant to belimiting, but rather should be taken as illustrative of the generalprinciples of the disclosure. The scope of the disclosure should bedetermined with reference to the claims.

1. Multi-network enabled wireless apparatus configured to search for anetwork connection, the apparatus comprising: a plurality of wirelessinterfaces; and computerized logic in data communication with theplurality of interfaces, the logic configured to cause the apparatus to:identify information relating to a previously active network connection;determine a search behavior based on the previously active connection,the search behavior comprising a single-network search mode; and executethe search behavior.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the previouslyactive network is selected from the group consisting of: (i) a lastnetwork connection established by the device; and (ii) a last networkconnection established by the device for a prescribed period of time. 3.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the previously active network isselected from the group consisting of: (i) a last network connectionestablished by the device and used to transfer amount of data in excessof a minimum data transfer size; and (ii) a last network connectionestablished by the device and characterized by a receive signal strengthin excess of a minimum signal strength parameter.
 4. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the previously active network connection comprises aselected network connection of a plurality of network connectionspreviously established by the device within a time period, prior to theidentification, the selected network connection determined based on aparameter related to one or more of (i) frequency of occurrence and (ii)session duration associated with occurrence of the selected networkconnection within the time period.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein:the multi-network wireless communications device is capable of operatingin at least a home network and one or more roaming networks, having aroaming geographic coordinate associated therewith; the determining thesearch behavior comprises determination of a present geographiccoordinate of the device; and the search behavior comprises a search forat least one of the one or more roaming networks based on the presentgeographic coordinate matching the roaming geographic coordinate.
 6. Theapparatus of claim 5, wherein the at least one of the one or moreroaming networks is selected based on a deployment density of the atleast one of the one or more roaming networks at the present geographiccoordinate being greater a compared to a deployment density of at leastone other roaming network of the one or more roaming networks at thepresent geographic coordinate.
 7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein: thehome and the one or more roaming networks are each selected from thegroup consisting of: (i) CDMA2000, (ii) GSM, and (iii) WCDMA networks;and expiration of the time duration is based on a counter.
 8. A portableradio communications apparatus comprising: one or more modems,individual ones of the one or more modems configured to operate in oneor more networks; a processor coupled to the one or more modems; and anon-transitory computer readable apparatus having a storage medium withat least one computer program stored thereon, the at least one computerprogram configured to, when executed on the processor, reduce costassociated with communication by the apparatus via the one or morenetworks through at least: identification of information relating to aprevious connection to one or more of the networks; determination of asearch behavior based on the information, the search behavior comprisinga single-network search mode for a time duration; and execution of thesearch behavior.
 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein: the networkcomprises a home network associated with the apparatus, communicationvia the home network being characterized by a communication cost that islower compared to at least one other network of the one or morenetworks; and the search behavior comprises search for the home network.10. Computer readable apparatus comprising a storage medium and having aplurality of computer readable instructions stored thereon, theinstructions configured to, when executed, manage energy use by a mobiledevice capable of operating in multiple networks comprising at least afirst network and a second network, the execution of the instructionscausing the mobile device to at least: identify information relating toone or more device conditions; determine first search behavior based onat least the information, the search behavior comprising asingle-network search mode for a first time duration; and execute thefirst search behavior.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein theinstructions are further configured to, when executed: based onunsuccessful execution of the first search behavior, determine secondsearch behavior comprising a multi-network search mode for a second timeduration; and execute the second search behavior; wherein theunsuccessful execution of the first search behavior is characterized byan absence of an active connection to the first network upon anexpiration of the first time duration.
 12. The apparatus of claim 11,wherein: the one or more device conditions comprises a previously activenetwork connection associated with a first network of the multiplenetworks; and the first search behavior comprises dynamic configurationof the first time duration based on data associated with the previouslyactive network connection, the first search behavior configured to causethe mobile device to search for the first network.
 13. The apparatus ofclaim 11, wherein: the first duration is configured to be shorter thanthe second duration; and a successful execution of the first searchbehavior, characterized by an active connection to the first networkupon an expiration of the first time duration, results in reduced energyuse.
 14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the one or more deviceconditions are selected from the group consisting of: (i) device powerconsumption in at least one of the first and the second networks; (ii) aremaining battery life of the device; and (iii) a previously activenetwork connection.
 15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the one ormore device conditions are selected from the group consisting of: (i) anoutcome of a previous search behavior; (ii) a geographic location of thedevice; (iii) a preference setting associated with a user of the device;and (iv) an out-of-band information related to discovery of at least oneof the first and the second networks.
 16. The apparatus of claim 10,wherein, the first search behavior comprises searching for the firstnetwork during the first duration, the first duration configured basedat least on the device condition.
 17. The apparatus of claim 16, whereinfirst search behavior is configured based at least on a determinationthat a probability of locating the first network within the firstduration is greater than a probability of locating the second networkwithin the first duration.
 18. A method of operating a wireless networkbase station apparatus comprising a storage medium and having aplurality of computer readable instructions stored thereon, theinstructions configured to, when executed, manage multi-mode operationof a mobile device, by at least: communicating with the mobile devicevia an active connection, the communicating characterized by an activitytime; and the mobile device to store information related to the activeconnection; wherein the information is configured to enable the mobiledevice, at a time subsequent to the activity time, to: access the storedinformation; determine a search behavior based on the storedinformation, the search behavior comprising a single-network networksearch mode for a time duration; and execute the search behavior. 19.The method of claim 18, wherein: the communication comprises dataassociated with a location of the mobile device; and the single-networknetwork search comprises a search for the wireless network.
 20. Themethod of claim 19, further comprising: based on an search for thewireless network, providing data related to another wireless network tothe mobile device, the data configured to aid the mobile device toconfigure another search for the another network.
 21. A wireless networkapparatus, comprising: at least one wireless interface; a server; andlogic in data communication with the at least one interface and theserver, and configured to aid a cellular network search by a userequipment (UE) device capable of operating in multiple wireless networksby at least communication of geographic information to the UE device;wherein, the geographic information is configured to enable the UEdevice to: determine a search behavior based on the information, thesearch behavior comprising a single-network network search mode for atime duration; and execute the search behavior.
 22. The apparatus ofclaim 21, wherein: the communicating comprises an out-of-bandcommunication between the server and the UE device in accordance with awireless protocol of the wireless network; the search behavior comprisesa search for the cellular network, the cellular network being operablein accordance with a protocol different from the wireless protocol; andthe geographic information comprises one or more of (i) geographicinformation obtained from a Wi-Fi beacon, a Global Positioning System(GPS) coordinates, a user preference, a historical information based onprevious communication by the UE device.